Ending Licensed Lay Ministry Well

Licensed lay ministry is an active ministry and one that should have both a dynamic life and a considered end. Between their 70 and 80 birthdays LLMs are invited to actively consider when it would be appropriate to end this phase of ministry. Part of the role of the regular ministry reviews will be to identify the right time to end and to end it well.

This is not always an easy decision. However, addressing the following questions may help:

• Am I the best person to undertake this ministry or is there someone else who could do it with my encouragement?
• Is the pattern of services right for this place or is it the one which is comfortable and known?
• Who might come forward if I step aside?
• How am I enabling and encouraging the next generation of lay leaders?

For licenses to be renewed beyond the age of 80 LLMs should meet the following qualifying conditions:

• They must show that they are competent and capable for an active ministry (where an active ministry is one where at least once a month they fulfil a role that cannot be undertaken by a lay person without licence or permission)
• Have the support and consent of the PCC and incumbent
• Are fulfilling a demonstrable need within your local ministry team

The end of ministry should be marked and celebrated. Sample liturgy for concluding Licensed Lay Ministry can be downloaded here.

LLM Emeritus status is given to those who have ceased to have an active ministry. It is given in recognition of a LLM’s previous service to the Church by the Bishop. It should be noted that once emeritus status has been given it is a requirement that the LLM will cease to have an active public ministry, i.e. he or she will have ceased taking services or preaching and will stop wearing robes.

LLMs wishing to surrender their licence are asked to contact the LLM Administrator giving their reason for surrender and indicating whether they wish to be awarded Emeritus status.

LLMs Emeritus would remain part of the lay ministry family, recognising the wealth of experience and wisdom that they hold. As a result, retired lay ministers will be:

• Invited to the annual service of celebration at the Cathedral in October.
• Invited to the quinquennial relicensing held in each archdeaconry.
• Invited to other events organised throughout the year.